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Memphis International Airport reveals US$214m modernization plans

Memphis International Airport (MEM) has unveiled updated plans to redesign and update its B concourse.

As well as changes to the concourse itself, the plan’s works will also consolidate all airline, retail and food and beverage businesses into the remodeled concourses. The modernization will include the addition of wider corridors, moving walkways, larger boarding areas, higher ceilings and more natural lighting.

It is estimated the full modernization project will cost US$214m, an increase on the previously shared sum that included only B concourse construction costs.

Pace Cooper, chairman of the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority board of commissioners, said, “This is a lengthy, complex process, and it’s crucial that we do it right in order to deliver the best possible airport experience for Memphis travelers.

“We’ve made progress thus far, and more significant changes are on the horizon. These changes are all part of a project that will result in a modern, convenient, state-of-the-art airport for our passengers, airlines, concessionaires and other partners.”

After Delta Air Lines removed passenger transfer hub operations in 2013, MEM officials announced its preliminary modernization plans in early 2014. With MEM now an origin and destination airport rather than a transfer hub, modernization was deemed necessary to streamline passenger flow and increase space and amenities.

The B concourse will be closed during construction, which is due to begin in early 2018, and airlines and retail tenants will operate out of the A and C concourses during that time. The south end of the C concourse will remain intact until the B Concourse project is completed and airlines are relocated from C to B.

Once construction is complete, the consolidation into the B concourse will begin. Consolidation will take place over an extended period to allow for the relocation of jet bridges and other equipment. The modernization is expected to reach completion in 2021.